Plumbing Prevention Tips to Get Your Home Holiday-Ready

The holiday season brings an influx of guests, increased cooking, and added stress on your home's plumbing system. The last thing anyone wants is a surprise plumbing problem during family gatherings! To help ensure everything runs smoothly, here are some straightforward preventative tips to prepare your home for the holidays.

Examine Your Drains and Garbage Disposal

With all the extra cooking, your kitchen sink and garbage disposal will likely see more action. Here's how to prevent clogs and maintain good flow:

• Don't pour grease down the drain: Cooking oils and fats can solidify in your pipes, leading to blockages.

• Use cold water with the disposal: Running cold water while using the disposal helps solidify fats, making them easier to chop and flush away.

• Be cautious with what you dispose of: Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods, like potato peels and celery, down the disposal as they can jam it.

Look for Leaks Throughout Your Home

Even minor leaks can become significant issues, especially during heavy usage. Make it a routine to check critical areas for leaks:

• Faucets and sinks: Look for any drips or moisture around kitchen and bathroom faucets.

• Toilets: Listen for running water or inspect the base of the toilet for leaks.

• Outdoor faucets: Ensure outdoor spigots are shut off to prevent any potential issues during unexpected temperature drops.

Maintain Your Water Heater

If you're hosting overnight guests, having hot water is essential. To prevent running out, do some simple maintenance on your water heater:

• Flush the tank: Sediment buildup can decrease efficiency, so flushing it annually helps it function properly.

• Adjust the temperature: Set your water heater to 120°F for energy efficiency and to prevent scalding.

If your water heater is making unusual noises or struggling to keep up, consider having it inspected before the holidays.

Clear Gutters and Outdoor Drains

While Florida doesn't see snow, heavy rains can cause issues if your gutters and drains are clogged. To prevent water damage, take time to:

• Remove debris: Clear leaves, twigs, and other blockages from your gutters to ensure proper drainage.

• Check outdoor drains: Ensure any drains around your home's foundation are unclogged to prevent flooding.

Inspect and Maintain Outdoor Plumbing

Florida's warm climate can still affect your plumbing, especially with frequent rains. Here are some tips:

• Disconnect hoses: Leaving hoses connected to outdoor fixtures can lead to damage from prolonged exposure to heat.

• Inspect for leaks: Regularly check outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks, especially after heavy rains.

Get Ready for Extra Guests

When you have guests, your plumbing system will be put to the test. Here are some tips to help prevent bathroom issues:

• Provide waste bins: Place small trash bins in each bathroom to deter guests from flushing items that could clog the toilet.

• Stagger shower times: To avoid overloading your water heater, encourage guests to stagger their showers or limit their duration.

Keep Emergency Contacts Accessible

Despite your best efforts, plumbing emergencies can still occur. Having the contact information for a trustworthy plumber handy ensures that any issues can be resolved quickly, even during the busy holiday season.

Following these preventative tips can sidestep plumbing headaches and keep your holiday festivities running smoothly. If you require professional assistance with maintenance or repairs, don't hesitate to call Pam's Plumbing so you can focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with family and friends.